HANOI: As early morning sunlight spreads across the rice fields of Trach Xa village on Hanoi's outskirts, the sound of sewing machines signals not just a centuries-old tradition, but also a new path toward prosperity.
In 2024, Trach Xa's Ao Dai, Vietnam's traditional long dress, tailoring craft was listed as a Vietnamese national intangible cultural heritage, marking a turning point for the thousand-year-old village.
"Since the recognition, business has improved significantly," said Vu Thi Hang, a local tailor with 14 years of experience. "Our Ao Dai are now showcased at exhibitions and fairs, and more people know about Trach Xa."
"Some shops send us fabric and request up to 1,000 dresses per order, often for hotel staff or flight attendants," she said, adding that her income has risen to around 20 to 30 million Vietnam Dong (about US$790 to 1,185) monthly, excluding material and labor costs.
Tourism is also emerging as a driver. "We've begun receiving both domestic and international tour groups," Hang said. "The government has conducted surveys and plans to promote tourism in this area."
According to local officials, currently, over 100 households in the village engage in Ao Dai production, most from home, while others have opened shops under the Trach Xa brand in nearby provinces.
Le Van Duan, who began sewing in 1988, said that preserving the tradition depends on making it economically viable for the next generation.
To expand beyond the village, Vietnamese artisans are also embracing e-commerce.
"Some tailors now sell their Ao Dai online, combining traditional hand-stitching with digital platforms," said cultural researcher Tran Doan Lam, former director of The Gioi (World) Publishers.
Lam noted that fashion programs at Vietnamese universities such as the University of Industrial Fine Arts and the University of Culture are cultivating new talent in ethnic costume design.
"Culture is both a goal and a driving force for economic development and national progress," Lam said. "Ao Dai will certainly contribute to the development of the economy, culture, and the country as a whole." - Xinhua
